Careers

Description:

Public Health – Jail Health Services (JHS) is seeking a short-term temporary (STT) Social Services Specialist (Community Health Worker) to join its innovative team. Community Health Workers (CHWs) provide health education, resource navigation, and supportive services to individuals releasing from jail or engaging with therapeutic court services. Working across multiple Public Health and community locations, CHWs collaborate closely with social workers, SUD care coordinators, nurses, interpreters, and other providers to ensure seamless care and successful transitions into the community. This position requires a strong commitment to equity and social justice, and an understanding of the challenges faced by individuals involved in the criminal legal system.

CHWs actively support clients in accessing health care, behavioral health treatment, housing, and benefits, while advocating for fair, respectful, and compassionate services for all. Public Health values and actively seeks applicants from diverse backgrounds, including people with lived experience of substance use, incarceration, houselessness, people of color, and members of the LGBTQIA+ communities. If you are passionate about supporting diverse populations and improving health outcomes, this role offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of individuals and the health of our community.

Job Duties

 

• Provide person-centered support grounded in harm reduction and trauma-informed practice.
• Help clients meet immediate needs through brief assessment, crisis support, and active listening.
• Connect clients to primary and specialty health care. Link clients with mental health services and ongoing support.
• Refer and connect clients to substance use disorder (SUD) treatment. Coordinate access to medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD) providers.
• Assist clients in securing safe and stable housing. Connect clients to additional community resources based on their needs.
• Schedule and accompany clients to release-day and community appointments; provide and coordinate transportation support as needed.
• Share clear, culturally relevant health information and harm reduction supplies.
• Support clients in accessing Medicaid, insurance, benefits, and public transportation.
• Advocate with providers to ensure follow-through on referrals and services.
• Maintain accurate records using electronic charting and scheduling systems. 
• Keep current information on community resources and referral options.
• Collaborate with partner agencies, attend team meetings, and contribute to ongoing training.
• Participate in program meetings, presentations, and continuing education on substance use disorders, mental health conditions, and related topics.
• Communicate clearly and respectfully with clients, colleagues, and community partners.
• Perform other related duties as assigned.

Skills/Eligibility:

Our ideal candidate will demonstrate the following (Minimum):

• Knowledge and application of harm reduction principles and trauma-informed care.
• Experience providing direct services in a health, human services, or community setting.
• Familiarity with social, health, and community resources in King County and Washington State.
• Ability to establish rapport, provide support, and advocate for diverse clients, including individuals who are unhoused, actively using substances, or living with complex health challenges.
• Understanding of racial equity, social justice, health promotion, and public health approaches to care.
• Experience using de-escalation techniques in high-stress or high-conflict situations.
• Knowledge of issues related to incarceration and substance use.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to engage respectfully across cultures, identities, and lived experiences.
• Ability to maintain professional boundaries and supportive relationships with clients.
• Skill in coordinating referrals to community services that address health and safety needs.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs and comfort using electronic systems with dropdown menus, multiple screens, and point-and-click navigation.
• Ability to document and summarize client interactions accurately in an electronic medical record system.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to multi-task, prioritize, and adapt to changing work environments.
• Ability to work collaboratively with partners and advocate effectively during care coordination.
• Valid, unrestricted Washington State Driver’s License and ability to travel within King County on a flexible schedule.
• Washington State Department of Health Community Health Worker certification (required within 12 months of hire).
• Current Basic Life Support (BLS)/CPR certification.

The most competitive applicants will have the following experiences and qualifications (Desired): 

• Formal education in health, behavioral health, or social services, or an equivalent combination of education and relevant professional and lived experience.
• Extensive experience working in or alongside social service or justice-involved organizations.
• Advanced knowledge and experience in areas such as substance use, harm reduction, sexual health, HIV/AIDS, hepatitis C, mental health, and related public health concerns.
• Experience working with therapeutic courts, mental health courts, or other diversion programs, with an understanding of their goals, processes, and partnerships.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Lived experience relevant to justice involvement, behavioral health, recovery, or reentry (strongly valued).